Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme is set to deliver more robust support for lower-wage workers starting in 2025. With major enhancements announced under Budget 2024, eligible individuals may now receive up to $4,900 annually. This is part of the government’s continued effort to uplift lower-income workers, encourage steady employment, and build long-term retirement adequacy.
Let’s break down what’s changing, who qualifies, and when you can expect your payout.
What is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)?
Introduced in 2007, the Workfare Income Supplement scheme offers cash payouts and CPF top-ups to eligible Singaporean workers earning lower incomes. It was designed to not only supplement their income but also help them build up CPF savings for the future. The scheme rewards regular work and supports continued employment among older workers and persons with disabilities.
As of 2025, the WIS scheme will be enhanced significantly to include more people and increase the maximum payout amounts.
What’s Changing in 2025?
From 1 January 2025, the monthly income eligibility threshold will increase from $2,500 to $3,000. This change means more lower- to middle-income earners will be brought into the scheme. In addition, the maximum annual payout will rise to $4,900, especially benefitting older workers and persons with disabilities.
One of the biggest improvements is that persons with disabilities will now qualify for the highest tier of WIS payouts, regardless of age. Previously, payout amounts decreased with age for this group, but this update ensures more equitable support for all workers with disabilities.
Also, the WIS payout structure will be adjusted to deliver monthly payouts to employees instead of quarterly, offering more timely financial assistance. Self-employed individuals will still receive annual payouts after declaring their income and contributing to MediSave.
Who is Eligible?
To receive WIS in 2025, you must be a Singapore citizen, at least 30 years old by the end of the work year. Those with permanent disabilities are eligible regardless of age.
- You must earn a gross monthly income between $500 and $3,000 to qualify. If you’re self-employed, your income is based on net trade income declared with IRAS, and you’ll need to make the required MediSave contributions.
- You must not own more than one property, and if you’re married, the combined property ownership between you and your spouse should not exceed one property. The spouse’s annual income should not exceed $70,000.
If all these conditions are met, you’re likely to qualify for WIS, and the payout you receive will depend on your exact age and income level.
How Much Can You Receive?
In 2025, eligible employees can receive up to $4,900 per year. The actual amount varies depending on age. Workers aged 30 to 34 could receive just over $1,600 annually, while those aged 60 and above, or with disabilities, could receive the full $4,900.
This payout is split between cash and CPF top-ups about 40% is paid in cash, while the remaining 60% goes into your CPF accounts, helping you build long-term savings for retirement and healthcare.
When Will You Be Paid?
If you’re employed and make regular CPF contributions, your WIS payouts will be made monthly, starting around the third month after the work month. For example, work done in January 2025 will see the payout credited by April 2025.
Self-employed workers will receive their payout in a single lump sum each year, provided they declare their income by the stipulated deadlines and meet MediSave contribution requirements.
These changes not only make payouts more frequent but also improve financial stability for workers living paycheck to paycheck.
No Need to Apply (In Most Cases)
The best part? If you’re employed, you don’t need to apply. The government will automatically assess your eligibility using the CPF contributions made by your employer. You’ll receive a notification via SMS, Singpass, or mail before your first payout.
However, self-employed individuals must declare their income to IRAS and contribute to MediSave. If you’re self-employed and don’t complete these steps, you may miss out on your benefits.
Why It Matters
With inflation and the rising cost of living, these enhancements to the WIS scheme could make a real difference to thousands of workers. The increased income threshold and monthly payouts will support more Singaporeans in staying employed and securing their financial futures.
If you’re someone who earns less than $3,000 monthly and meets the age or disability criteria, this scheme is built for you. It’s more inclusive, more generous, and better structured to provide both immediate and long-term support.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s 2025 Workfare Income Supplement updates are a welcome boost for the nation’s lower-income earners. Whether you’re employed or self-employed, the new structure offers better coverage, larger payouts, and more regular payments. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and have accurate records with CPF or IRAS, the support will come to you no application needed in most cases.
So, if you think you might qualify, keep an eye out for notifications and ensure your employment and income records are up to date. The government’s support is there make sure you’re ready to receive it.